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HomeRepair HelpDryer RepairDryer won't start Repair
Dryer won't start
If your dryer won't start or is not turning on, the most likely culprits are a blown thermal fuse, a door that's not fully closed, or a faulty start switch. A blown thermal fuse is the top cause and usually points to a restricted exhaust vent, so check the venting before you replace the fuse and test it for continuity with a multimeter. Next, confirm the door is fully latched and nothing is blocking it, then listen for the door switch click when you try to start the dryer. If the dryer gives no response at all, the start switch or the main control board may be at fault; inspect the control board for burned components and test for voltage to the motor. If the motor hums but the drum does not turn or the dryer makes noise when trying to start, look for an object stuck in the blower wheel or a damaged blower wheel. If you need replacement parts, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact part that fits your specific dryer.
01 - Dryer Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse is a safety device designed to protect the dryer from overheating. The fuse is located on the blower housing or at the dryer’s heat source such as the heating element on electric dryers or at the burner on gas models. The fuse should be closed for continuity meaning it has a continuous electrical path through it when good. If overheated the fuse will have no continuity meaning the electrical path is broken and the fuse has blown. A multimeter can be used to test it for continuity. Be aware that a blown thermal fuse is an indication of a restricted exhaust vent from the dryer to the outside. Always check t...
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Top Solution
02 - Door is not fully closed
Since the dryer will not start with the door open, confirm the door is fully closed and remove anything that is obstructing the door.
Top Solution
03 - Dryer Start Switch
To determine if the start switch is defective, attempt to start the dryer. If the dryer hums but does not start, the start switch is not at fault. If the dryer does not respond or make any noise, the start switch could be at fault. Use a multimeter to test the start switch for continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, replace it.
Highly Likely
04 - Dryer Door Switch
The door switch activates when the dryer door is closed. On most dryers, the door switch makes an audible clicking sound when it activates. To determine if the door switch is working, try starting your dryer and then listen for the “click.” If the door switch makes a clicking sound, it is probably not defective. If you don’t hear a click, use a multimeter to use the door switch for continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, replace it.
Common
05 - Dryer Control Board
A dryer's control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If the board is defective, it may not allow the dryer to start. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component. You can also use a multimeter to test for voltage reaching the drive motor after reviewing the dryer's wiring diagram.
Common
06 - Object stuck in blower wheel
If the dryer won’t start, an article of clothing may have gotten past the lint screen and is caught in the blower wheel. When this happens the drive motor will either hum but won’t start or will make a lot of noise when trying to start. The blower cover will need to be removed to check for obstructions. If the blower wheel is damaged it will need to be replaced.
Common
07 - Dryer Heating Element
The heating element warms the air before it enters the dryer drum. Over time, the heating element can burn out, causing the dryer not to heat , or short out which can cause the dryer to overheat. To determine if the heating element is defective, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the heating element does not have continuity, or is shorted (has continuity to the case), replace it. Note: If the thermal fuse has tripped, some heating elements come with a thermal fuse and high limit thermostat already on them.
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
My dryer won't start — what should I check first?
Why does my dryer hum or make noise but the drum will not turn?
Could a blown thermal fuse cause my dryer to overheat or not start?
How can I tell if the start switch, door switch, or control board is the problem?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?